Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that will spice up your weeknight meals? Try these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs! This easy recipe combines crispy, juicy chicken thighs with a sweet, spicy, and creamy bang bang sauce. Inspired by the popular Asian-American dish, this recipe brings bold flavors to your kitchen without the hassle. It’s the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, and it pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or a side of veggies. Plus, everything comes together in one skillet for a stress-free meal. Ready to cook up a tasty dish that will wow your taste buds? Keep reading to learn how to make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs!

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What is Skillet Bang Bang Chicken?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken is a spin on the famous bang bang shrimp, a dish that originated in Asian-American fusion cuisine. The chicken is pan-seared until crispy, then tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Using chicken thighs adds a deeper, juicier flavor compared to shrimp, and cooking everything in a skillet makes it an easy, one-pan meal. This dish gets its name from the "bang bang" sauce, which packs a punch of sweet and spicy flavors that perfectly complement the crispy chicken.

Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, perfect for this recipe.
• ½ cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken and achieving a crispy coating.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds flavor to the dredge.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – For an extra layer of seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a slight smokiness to the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For frying the chicken.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and a slight tang.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – For that signature bang of heat (adjust to taste).
• 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the heat with sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice – Adds a touch of acidity to brighten up the sauce.

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions – For added freshness and color.
• Sesame seeds – For texture and presentation.
• Fresh cilantro – Adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, be sure not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster than thighs.
• Panko for Extra Crunch: Swap the cornstarch or flour for panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture. This will give you a crispier exterior, similar to fried chicken.
• Greek Yogurt: For a lighter sauce, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It still provides creaminess but cuts down on fat and calories.
• Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of sriracha to control the heat. For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or more sriracha. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the sriracha and add more sweet chili sauce.
• Baked Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken thighs at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Then, toss them in the sauce right before serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, mix the cornstarch (or flour), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken thigh in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess. This helps to give the chicken a nice, crispy exterior when seared.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – if you prefer more heat, add more sriracha; if you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey.
5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the heat. Toss the crispy chicken thighs in the bang bang sauce until they are well-coated. You can either do this in the skillet or transfer the chicken to a large bowl for tossing.
6. Serve: Garnish the chicken with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad on the side.

How to Cook Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Season and Dredge – Don’t skip dredging the chicken thighs in the seasoned cornstarch or flour. This helps create that signature crispy exterior.
2. Step 2: Sear to Perfection – Heat the skillet properly before adding the chicken thighs. This ensures a crispy, golden crust. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
3. Step 3: Make the Sauce – The bang bang sauce is key to the dish. Whisk it until smooth and adjust the spice level to your liking.
4. Step 4: Coat the Chicken – Toss the crispy chicken in the bang bang sauce immediately after cooking while it’s still warm, so the sauce clings to the chicken and flavors every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil, resulting in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken.
• Skipping the Dredge: The cornstarch or flour dredge is what gives the chicken its crispy crust. Skipping this step will lead to less crispy chicken.
• Not Adjusting the Sauce to Taste: Bang bang sauce should be a balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy. Taste and adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences.
• Not Drying the Chicken: Always pat the chicken dry before dredging. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from crisping up.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are best served hot, right after tossing them in the sauce. For a complete meal, serve the chicken with:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, mild rice helps balance the bold flavors of the bang bang sauce.
• Asian Noodles: Toss some stir-fried noodles with sesame oil and veggies for a perfect pairing.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with cucumber, carrots, and a tangy dressing will complement the richness of the chicken.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

To make this dish pop, serve the chicken thighs on a bed of rice or noodles, with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. For a more casual presentation, pile the chicken on a large serving plate and let guests help themselves. Drizzle any extra bang bang sauce over the top for extra flavor!

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

• Garnish: Brighten up the dish with finely chopped cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can also add a slice of lime on the side for a pop of color.
• Serving Dish: Use a rustic cast iron skillet for serving straight from the stove to the table, or plate the chicken on a beautiful platter with contrasting side dishes like green veggies or white rice for a balanced visual appeal.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thigh Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Chicken Thighs: Fresh, boneless, skinless thighs will give you the juiciest results, but you can also use bone-in thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Crispiness Hack: For extra crispy chicken, double dredge it – coat it in the cornstarch mixture, dip it back into the buttermilk or egg mixture, and dredge it again in the cornstarch before frying.
• Make It Ahead: The bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just whisk it before using.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, but be sure to pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Breasts tend to cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is bang bang sauce?
The heat level can be adjusted to your taste. The sriracha adds spice, so if you

prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of sriracha and increase the sweet chili sauce or mayonnaise.

Can I make this dish in an air fryer?
Yes! You can air-fry the chicken thighs for a healthier option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

What should I do with leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven to preserve the crispy texture. You can also store the bang bang sauce separately and toss the chicken right before serving.

Conclusion

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any weeknight meal. With their crispy exterior and the irresistible creamy bang bang sauce, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you serve them with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, this dish delivers big flavors in a simple, one-pan recipe. Try it tonight and enjoy the sweet and spicy taste of bang bang chicken in the comfort of your own home!

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